Last Updated on September 27, 2026 by Sleepless
Updated September 2026: This guide combines our family’s helicopter and airboat experiences with practical planning advice. Tour operators, routes and prices can change, so check the linked official sites before booking.
Orlando Helicopter Tours and Kissimmee Airboat Rides
An Orlando helicopter tour gives you a bird’s-eye view of Central Florida, while an airboat ride near Kissimmee takes you across wetlands at the headwaters of the Everglades. We tried both on a family trip: the helicopter was smooth and offered wide views, while the airboat brought us close to the marsh and its wildlife. Here is what we experienced, plus what to check before you book.
During our 2017 stay near Marriott’s Harbour Lake, we visited Orlando Heli-Tours. Our 15-minute flight cost $85 at the time. That is a travel memory, not a current quote: the operator now lists shorter rides from $35 and longer tours at higher prices. Compare current routes, departure locations and availability on the operator’s helicopter tours page before you go.
I had never been in a helicopter before and worried about the open-looking cabin. On our ride the cabin was enclosed, the flight felt smooth, and we could speak with the pilot and each other through our headsets. The views made the short flight memorable. Tour seating and passenger weight limits depend on the aircraft and operator, so review those requirements before booking.
Our Airboat Ride at the Everglades Headwaters
I had heard about the Everglades since childhood and did not want to miss the chance to see Florida’s wetlands. We booked with Marsh Landing Adventures near Kissimmee. In 2017, our 60-minute trip cost $49.95. The company’s current official tour page lists its 60-minute ride from $55, with longer tours also available; check the booking page for live prices and terms.
The airboat ride was fascinating, especially when we spotted an alligator in its natural habitat. My family found the heat difficult, and our boat was only partly covered. Airboats are loud, so use the hearing protection provided; sunscreen, a hat and water are useful on hot days. The operator says it supplies ear protection and recommends booking ahead, particularly when seats are limited.
One geography note helps set expectations: Kissimmee’s wetlands are part of the Everglades watershed and headwaters region, while Everglades National Park lies much farther south. A Central Florida airboat ride is a convenient way to explore local wetlands, but it is not a visit to the national park.
Here are a few photographs from the day:
Planning an Orlando Helicopter Tour
Orlando Heli-Tours currently advertises flights from locations near Premium Outlets and ICON Park. Listed routes range from short introductory flights to longer theme-park tours, with prices varying by route and location. Walk-ins may be possible, but the operator notes that wait times vary; call ahead if you have a tight schedule. Verify current routes, restrictions and prices on its official tours page and FAQ.
- Check the departure point carefully: the company has more than one Orlando-area location.
- Provide passenger weights when required; helicopter seating and total weight limits vary by aircraft.
- Ask about weather, cancellation and rescheduling terms before paying.
- Take photos from inside the cabin and follow the crew’s instructions; avoid selfie sticks or loose items.
Choosing an Airboat Tour Near Orlando
Airboat operators are based outside the main theme-park areas, especially around Kissimmee and St. Cloud. Marsh Landing Adventures lists one-hour rides from $55 and longer options on its official tour list. VISIT FLORIDA’s airboat guide also lists operators in Central Florida, including Boggy Creek and Wild Florida. Compare location, duration, group size, included attractions and transport before choosing; rates and packages change.
- Reserve ahead when you have a specific time or a larger group; ask the operator about availability.
- Choose morning or late-day timing if you prefer to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Bring sun protection and water, and use the ear protection provided.
- Confirm whether a package includes a wildlife park or other admission, and whether transport is included.
Getting There and Combining the Experiences
Helicopter departure points are near International Drive, while airboat docks are farther south around Kissimmee. Travel times depend on traffic and your hotel, so allow extra time and confirm the exact meeting point. A rental car gives flexibility for an airboat dock; rideshare may work, but plan the return trip from a less central location.
We did the helicopter and airboat on separate outings during our Florida stay, alongside Kennedy Space Center and Universal Orlando. Keeping these two nature experiences separate gives you more room for travel time and weather changes. For theme-park planning, see our Disney Parks guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Orlando helicopter tour cost?
Prices depend on the route, duration, departure location and aircraft. The operator currently advertises some short rides from $35 and popular tours from $65. Check its live booking page for the exact price and restrictions.
Where can I take an airboat ride near Orlando?
Several operators work around Kissimmee and Central Florida’s lakes and wetlands. Marsh Landing Adventures is in Kissimmee; VISIT FLORIDA’s guide lists additional operators. Check the address and travel time before booking.
Is an Orlando-area airboat ride inside Everglades National Park?
No. Kissimmee-area rides explore Central Florida wetlands in the Everglades headwaters region. Everglades National Park is much farther south.
Should I book ahead?
Booking ahead is sensible if you need a specific time, have a group or are visiting during a busy period. Ask each operator about walk-ins, weather policies and cancellation terms.
